Best Staycation Spots In San Diego: Where To Eat, Relax And Stay

Who says you can't vacation in the place you call home? Plan a staycation in San Diego by visiting these local attractions and destinations.

Published April 2, 2020

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CA — It's not called America's Finest City for nothing! If you're lucky enough to be a resident of San Diego, then you know that the cool surf town is unparalleled when it comes to its constant sunshine, picturesque beaches and out-of-this world Mexican food.

But how often is it that you San Diego natives get to play tourist in your very own city? The answer is most likely not often enough — which means you're in need of a staycation!

Instead of shelling out tons of cash to travel the globe, consider having a stay at one of Del Mar’s enviable hotels like the Homewood Suites Del Mar, or spend the day exploring the famous San Diego Zoo. And why not book a relaxing massage or facial at the sophisticated Spa Kingston?

If you have a palate for fine dining and cocktails, you're in luck — the city is also home to some delectable eateries and nightlife options like the Japanese bistro Himitsu and the trendy tiki bar False Idol. And there's always room for some dessert at Extraordinary Desserts.

If we haven't sold you yet, check out our list of attractions and destinations that are sure to make your San Diego staycation a success. Some might be new to you, while others might be old favorites that you just needed a little reminder about.

Enjoy Some Delectable Dining

Juniper & Ivy's yodel (pictured below), the lobster roll at Ironside Fish & Oyster and birria-steamed clams at Galaxy Taco — just a few dishes that are absolute musts when diving headfirst into San Diego's restaurant scene. From over-the-top brunches to savory seafood dinners, we've got your appetites covered from morning until night.

Morning Glory — over-the-top brunch spot located in Little Italy serving a globally inspired breakfast menu in an opulently designed setting.

Ironside Fish & Oyster — renovated, nautical-themed warehouse serving seafood fare and cocktails, located in Little Italy.

Juniper & Ivy — elevated, modern restaurant located on the edge of Little Italy, serving New American fare and drinks in a relaxed, artsy setting.

Himitsu — Japanese bistro located in La Jolla serving a menu of traditional sushi and nigiri, along with Japanese style tapas and a carefully curated sake list.

Galaxy Taco — relaxed hangout serving designer tacos and other Mexican fare in La Jolla, as well as a large tequila selection.

Campfire — indoor-outdoor restaurant serving New American fare and cocktails in a rustic camp-like setting, located in Carlsbad.

Extraordinary Desserts — airy eatery offering show stopping cakes and desserts with locations in Little Italy and Banker's Hill.

Treat Yourself To A 5-Star Stay

Some of the top hotels in San Diego lie north of the city in spectacular wilderness areas near Del Mar, an upscale coastal neighborhood about 20 miles northwest of downtown. This is a favorite area for outdoor adventures like kayaking, surfing, paragliding, and biking along the beach. It's also home to designer boutiques, museums, and the Torrey Pines State Reserve, a wild and rugged coastal park, where you can hike more than eight miles of trails, spot migrating whales from the cliffs, and bask on the windswept beaches.

San Marcos is also a exciting area, with outdoor adventures and the largest outlet shopping center in the U.S. 

Homewood Inn & Suites San Diego Del Mar— with easy access to Del Mar's beaches, shops, restaurants, and famous racetrack only 4.8 miles north. Downtown San Diego and the world-renowned zoo are just 16 miles south. Enjoy daily free hot breakfast and a full kitchen to cook your own meals.

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Marcos — witness a seamless blend of classic service and innovative amenities. Just moments from their doorsteps are notable destinations such as California State University San Marcos, Urge Gastropub & Common House and the nearby city of Escondido. 

Indulge In Crafty Cocktails

Who doesn't love to relax and unwind while sipping on a delicious cocktail? Whether you're into beer, wine or a fruity libation, San Diego has plenty of watering holes to quench everyone's thirst. Check out breweries like Gravity Heights or Tiger! Tiger!, or head back in time to swanky speakeasy Noble Experiment or apothecary-like bar Polite Provisions.

Gianni Buonomo Vintners — beach winery and wine tasting room set in a cozy and laid back ambiance, located in Ocean Beach.

Gravity Heights — brewery and restaurant that specializes in beer, located in Sorrento Mesa, serving New American cuisine and brunch in a comfortable atmosphere.

False Idol — trendy tiki bar serving drinks in a tropical surrounding hidden within Craft & Commerce, a hip gastropub serving seasonal eats and craft cocktails, located in Little Italy.

Polite Provisions — apothecary-esque bar located in North Park, offering craft cocktails and microbrews in an old-timey setting.

Noble Experiment — swanky speakeasy located behind a secret door in Gaslamp Quarter's Neighborhood restaurant.

Kindred — whimsical, eccentric space offering contemporary vegan food and drinks located in South Park.

Tiger! Tiger! — casual pub with communal picnic tables offering draught beer and creative bar fare, located in North Park.

Explore The Wonders Of San Diego

From its rich maritime history to its plethora of family-friendly attractions, San Diego has a little something for every staycationer. Explore the many wonder of Balboa Park which encompasses several acres of gardens, trails and even the San Diego Zoo. Or spend the day lounging on one of the city's scenic beaches, like La Jolla Cove.

Balboa Park — multi-attraction park covering 1,200 acres of land, home to more than 16 museums, multiple performing arts venues, gardens, trails and more recreational attractions.

San Diego Zoo — zoo located in Balboa Park, housing more than 3,500 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies — also home to Safari Park, hands-on safari adventure.

Belmont Park — oceanfront amusement park located in Mission Bay, home to the famous Mission Beach Roller Coaster (aka Giant Dipper).

San Diego Botanical Gardens — botanical gardens located in Encinitas, featuring rare bamboo groves, desert gardens, a tropical rainforest, California native plants, Mediterranean climate landscapes and a subtropical fruit garden.

Torrey Pines Natural Reserve — coastal state park and wilderness island located in La Jolla, one of the wildest stretches of land on the Southern California coast.

Cabrillo National Monument — monument commemorating the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay, located at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula.

La Jolla Cove — popular destination for snorklers scuba divers and sea lion sightings — a small, picturesque cove and beach surrounded by cliffs in La Jolla.

Sea World San Diego — animal theme park, oceanarium, outside aquarium and marine mammal park located in Mission Bay Park.

USS Midway Museum — historical naval aircraft carrier museum located at Navy Pier.

Shop 'Til You Drop

A staycation calls for some well-deserved retail therapy. Luckily, San Diego has a vibrant shopping scene with several villages and centers filled with shops, boutiques, dining and more. Head to one of Pigment's locations if you're looking for the perfect gift for a stylish friend, or visit the Open Aire Market for a little produce shopping and snacking.

Embarcadero — busy cruise ship hub with attractions, shopping and dining, also paying tribute to the region's rich maritime history complete with historic ships, museums and harbor tours, located in the Seaport Village.

Open Aire Market — farmers market open on Sundays with a selection of artisans, fresh local produce and savory bites, located in La Jolla.

Liberty Station — former Naval Training Center located in Point Loma — urban village offering shopping, eating and events.

Carlsbad Premium Outlets — outlet mall featuring premium brands and shops, as well as restaurants, eateries and services, located in Carlsbad.

Fashion Valley — upscale, open-air shopping mall located in Mission Valley.

Seaport Village — waterfront village home to diverse shopping, 17 unique dining venues and outdoor entertainment hosting festivals and celebrations.

Pigment — lifestyle shop with locations in North Park, Point Loma and Del Mar, carrying design-savvy gifts, flora, furniture and more.

Indulge And Relax

Relaxing is an essential part of your staycation, and when it comes to rejuvenating in San Diego, there are plenty of places to get primped and pampered. Soothe your body and mind at The Chopra Center Spa or plan a tranquil retreat at The Spa at Estancia La Jolla. You won't be disappointed!

The Spa at Estancia La Jolla — tranquil retreat near Torrey Pines offering San spa packages including massages, facials, body skincare, nail services, waxing and other services using primarily organic ingredients.

Spa Kingston — sophisticated and chic day spa offering entire body rejuvenation and an impressive spa experience, located in Little Italy.

The Chopra Center Spa — nurturing center offering Ayurvedic spa treatments that will soothe the body and mind, located in Carlsbad.

Rancho Bernardo Inn Spa — premiere spa using fresh and nourishing ingredients like avocado, strawberry, yogurt and honey for a relaxing experience.